Vaccinations

Please note: this page only applies to rabbits!

what does my rabbit need vaccinations against?

​Myxomatosis​Myxomatosis is an almost always fatal and highly infectious virus. It is transmitted via fleas, mosquitoes and close contact with an already infected rabbit. Myxomatosis kills many wild rabbits, as well as pet rabbits, every year. Whether your rabbit is indoors or outdoors, Myxomatosis is still a big threat and your rabbit needs vaccinating! The main warning signs of Myxomatosis are: conjunctivitis, red swollen eyes, lethargy, loss of appetite and a fever.

​Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD)​RVHD (also known as RHD, VHD, RHD-1, VHD-1) is even more contagious than Myxomatosis and the survival rate is even lower! RVHD is often difficult to spot as it kills rabbits very suddenly, without much warning. However, some of the warnings signs are: a fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, seizures, blood-stained discharge from nose/mouth. The latter of which is due to RVHD causing bleeding of the internal organs. RVHD is so contagious that it can be spread by humans, insects, rodents and birds and also through direct contact with an infected rabbit, it's urine or it's toys/bedding/bowls.

Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease 2 (RVHD-2)​RVHD-2 (also known as RHD-2, VHD-2) is a relatively new strain of the original RVHD and, due to the differences between the two, the vaccination for RVHD does not cover RVHD-2. However, RVHD-2 is similar to RVHD in that it causes severe internal bleeding and sudden death. It can also remain active in the environment for a very long time and is normally fatal.​​​

What vaccinations are available?

​Nobivac​Nobivac is also known as the 'combined vaccine' as it covers both Myxomatosis and RVHD. However, it DOES NOT cover RVHD-2. The combined vaccine can be given to rabbits from 5 weeks of age and immunity is believed to kick in after 3 weeks. This vaccination lasts for one year and so must be given annually.

Filivac​Filivac is a relatively new vaccine to cover both strains of RVHD (RVHD-1 and RVHD-2). It can be given to rabbits from 10 weeks of age, but must be given at least two weeks before or after the Nobivac vaccine. Your vet may recommend giving this vaccination every 6 months or annually. We would highly recommend getting it done every 6 months if you are in a high risk area, e.g. boarding facility, rescue centre, breeder, etc.

​Eravac​​Eravac also covers RVHD-2, but it does not cover the original strain of RVHD. It is, however, designed for rabbits bred for meat and so the duration is not very long as meat rabbits are normally slaughtered early on in life.

registered charity number 1179572

contact us

07707082349​enquiries@furlockholmes.uk

All donations are greatly appreciated and go straight towards to the care of the animals. This can include neutering, vaccinations and other veterinary costs, food and bedding, equipment and much more! Without donations, we wouldn't be able to run. If you would like to find out more about where your money goes, or if you want to donate towards the care of a particular animal, please get in touch. Thank you!